Republican Gov. Paul LePage has nominated one of his former election opponents to serve on two education boards.

Shawn Moody, who ran against LePage as in independent in 2010, has been nominated by the governor to serve as a trustee for both the Maine Community College System and the University of Maine System.  

The nomination of Moody is noteworthy because the Gorham native and small business owner has toyed with the idea of running for public office again. In 2010, he surprised many pundits by capturing 5 percent of the vote in a five-way race, despite entering the race late, no political experience and a bare bones campaign apparatus. Moody’s performance was attributed to his populist appeal: A nice guy turned off by the bitter State House battles.

The current gubernatorial candidates apparently haven’t forgotten Moody’s appeal. Moody recently told Portland Press Herald columnist Bill Nemitz that all three candidates have approached him to ask for his support. Moody hasn’t publicly backed either LePage, Democrat Mike Michaud or independent Eliot Cutler. However, his nominations, could make a public endorsement of either Cutler or Michaud more difficult if he accepts either education post. Additionally, LePage can take credit for nominating him.

The LePage administration did not respond to a request for comment.

Both education posts are subject to legislative approval. There doesn’t appear to be a rule that would prohibit Moody from serving on both boards if he accepts the nominations, according to a review of the governing statutes. Both boards allow for nominations from the business industry, which is Moody’s background. He owns the autobody repair franchise Moody’s Collision Centers.